As the weather gets colder here in Lincoln, you might notice your eyes feel more scratchy or irritated, a common sign of a winter dry eye flare-up. This is a common issue many people face during the winter months. The change in environment, both outside and inside, can have a big impact on your eye comfort.
Your tears are important for keeping your eyes healthy and your vision clear. The combination of cold, less humid outdoor air and dry indoor heating systems often causes winter dry eye, but you can find relief with simple habits and professional support. Let’s explore why this happens more often in winter and what steps you can take to feel better.
Why Dry Eyes Are More Common in the Winter
Cold Air & Low Humidity
Winter air is naturally less humid than warm summer air, meaning it holds less moisture. This dry outdoor environment can cause the moisture on the surface of your eyes to evaporate more quickly. Even a short walk outside can leave your eyes feeling strained and dry.
Indoor Heating Systems
We turn on our furnaces to stay warm, but this heat also dries out the air inside our homes and offices. This constant exposure to dry, indoor air can be a major cause of eye irritation. It robs your eyes of the moisture they need to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Windy Conditions
Winter in Nebraska often comes with strong winds that can make eye discomfort worse. Wind speeds up tear evaporation and can blow small particles of dust and debris into your eyes. This combination can make your eyes feel gritty and uncomfortable.
Common Signs of Winter Dry Eye
What You Might Feel
Dry eye discomfort can show up in several ways, especially as you spend more time indoors with the heat on. You might notice one or more of these common symptoms. Pay attention to how your eyes feel during your daily routine.
Symptoms often include:
- A scratchy or gritty feeling, like something is in your eye
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Sensitivity to light
- Redness
What You Might See
Sometimes, the signs of dry eye can seem confusing. For example, your eyes might water excessively as they try to produce more tears to compensate for the dryness. You may also experience periods of blurry vision that come and go.
Simple At-Home Tips for Relief
Add Moisture to Your Air
You can combat dry indoor air by using a humidifier in the rooms where you spend the most time, like your bedroom or office. This adds moisture back into the environment. It can help reduce the evaporation of your natural tears and bring you some comfort.
Adjust Your Daily Habits
Simple changes can make a difference in your eye comfort. Make a point to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, and remember to blink frequently. This is especially important when you use digital screens for long periods; practicing the 20-20-20 rule by taking short breaks can also help reduce strain.
Protect Your Eyes Outdoors
When you go outside, wear glasses or sunglasses to shield your eyes from the wind. A wraparound style offers more protection from wind coming from different directions. This simple barrier can help keep your eyes comfortable.
When to See a Lincoln Eye Doctor for Dry Eyes
If At-Home Care Isn’t Enough
If you’ve tried these tips and your eyes still feel dry and irritated, it may be time to get a professional opinion. Persistent discomfort can affect your daily life and productivity. You don’t have to put up with it all winter.
A Consultation with an Optometrist
A comprehensive dry eye exam can help identify the specific cause of your symptoms. Our optometrist will look at your overall eye health and tear quality. From there, we can discuss options that are right for you.
In-Office Treatments
When at-home care isn’t enough, professional treatments can provide longer-lasting relief. At Signature Eye Care, we offer several in-office options designed to target the root causes of dryness and restore comfort.
TempSure Envi uses gentle radiofrequency energy to safely warm the skin around your eyes. This soothing heat helps open blocked meibomian glands—the tiny oil glands along your eyelids that keep your tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands work properly, your eyes stay naturally hydrated for longer. Many patients also notice subtle skin-tightening benefits around the eyes, making the treatment both comfortable and rejuvenating.
OptiLight is an advanced light-based (IPL) therapy that helps manage dry eye caused by inflammation. Controlled pulses of light reduce redness, improve gland function, and promote a more stable tear film. Treatments are quick, noninvasive, and can lead to lasting improvements in eye comfort after just a few sessions.
Our Dry Eye Spa approach combines these advanced therapies with personalized care recommendations to fit your unique needs. During your evaluation, we’ll take a close look at your tear quality, gland health, and daily habits. From there, we’ll create a custom plan that may include prescription eye drops, eyelid hygiene routines, or targeted therapies to help your eyes feel refreshed and comfortable all season long.
Your Long-Term Comfort Plan
Dry eye often requires ongoing care, but you don’t have to manage it alone. We’ll work with you to build a personalized treatment plan that combines at-home strategies, recommended products, and in-office care for lasting relief.
With the right care and support, dry eye symptoms don’t have to hold you back this winter. Simple adjustments and professional treatment can make a noticeable difference in your comfort and clarity.
If dry, scratchy, or irritated eyes persist, don’t wait it out. The Signature Eye Care team in Lincoln is ready to help. We’ll work together on a plan tailored to your needs—so you can get back to seeing clearly, comfortably, and confidently.Schedule your dry eye assessment today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
